![compare tires](https://aecbmesvcm.cloudimg.io/v7/https://cxf-prod.azureedge.net/b2c-experience-production/attachments/clhqel78y3yqg01klyqg3c91a-compare-tires.one-sixth.png)
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What are "tire performance characteristics"?
![tip1 performance 680](https://aecbmesvcm.cloudimg.io/v7/https://cxf-prod.azureedge.net/b2c-experience-production/attachments/ckhk3r6xt0mss01loygpgwysg-tip1-performance-680.one-sixth.jpg)
To ensure effectiveness, tires need to deliver numerous, often conflicting, performance characteristics. Improving one of these performances must not be to the detriment of the others.
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTIC I SHOULD THINK ABOUT:
How do I choose between versions of a tire line?
Each of our tire lines is made in a selection of sizes to fit appropriate vehicles. Sometimes a tire line will have several versions of the same tire size but with different technical specifications such as speed ratings (ex: S, T, H, V, W, Y, etc.), load index (ex: 91, 94, XL, etc.), or OE markings (designating that a version was specifically designed for a vehicle manufacturer, ex: Star = BMW or Mini, MO = Mercedes, etc). These technical specifications are important details that can determine whether or not that version is compatible with your vehicle and the way you drive.
![tip4 version 680](https://aecbmesvcm.cloudimg.io/v7/https://cxf-prod.azureedge.net/b2c-experience-production/attachments/ckhk3vjop0iyf01okxk3bks1i-tip4-version-680.one-sixth.jpg)
If several versions are compatible with your vehicle, we recommend that you choose the version with the same specifications as your original equipment tires.
You can also safely select a version with higher speed rating or load index; however, higher speed or load capability can negatively impact tread life and ride comfort.